Smart self-powered window employing functional pod concept and charger system

Abstract

Exemplary embodiments present a self-contained window system that includes a solar power glass window, a functional pod containing components, an energy storage device, and an electrical circuit that distributes electrical power generated by the solar power glass and distributed to the components and the energy storage device. The self-contained window system is affixed to a structure, which can be a window frame, a glass mullion, or the like. In exemplary embodiments, the functional pod is affixed inside the structure, while in other exemplary embodiments, the functional pod is affixed outside the structure. Whether the functional pod is affixed inside or outside the structure, the components in the functional pod are accessible and easily serviceable. The functional pod and components can be conveniently replaced and upgraded.

Description

[0001] priority

[0002] This patent application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 664,446, filed June 26, 2024, entitled “SMART SELF-POWERED WINDOW WITHPOD CONCEPT AND CHARGER SYSTEM”, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0003] This patent application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 546,902, filed November 1, 2023, entitled “SMART SELF-POWERED WINDOW WITHPOD CONCEPT AND INTERNAL-EXTERNAL FUNCTION”, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0004] The exemplary embodiments of the present invention generally relate to self-powered windows, and more specifically, various embodiments of the present invention relate to intelligent self-powered windows having various components and battery storage devices. Background Technology

[0005] There is interest in increasing the functionality of windows. For example, in addition to providing a transparent barrier between the interior and exterior of a structure, designers have envisioned windows offering improved insulation, automatically changing color tones, electrochromic functions, and more. Some desired features of modern windows include electrical components. Because these electrical components require electrical power, a power source must be connected to the window to enable its operation. Summary of the Invention

[0006] According to one embodiment of the present invention, a self-powered window system includes solar-powered glass. The solar-powered glass is configured to provide an electrical power source for the window system. The self-powered window system also includes one or more pods configured to accommodate one or more features, and an energy management system electrically connected to the solar-powered glass. The energy management system is configured to optimize the storage and distribution of electrical power provided by the solar-powered glass.

[0007] The self-powered window system also includes at least one energy storage device located in at least one functional compartment. The at least one energy storage device is configured to be electrically connected to the solar-powered glass.

[0008] The self-powered window system also includes one or more circuits configured to distribute the electrical power to the one or more functional compartments and the at least one energy storage device; and a structure configured to secure at least the solar-powered glass, the one or more functional compartments, and the at least one energy storage device within the structure.

[0009] The window system is self-contained, such that the electrical power required to operate the one or more features, to energize the one or more circuits, and to charge the at least one energy storage device is provided by the solar-powered glass.

[0010] The one or more features may include at least one of a power supply compartment, a security compartment, a privacy compartment, a gas sensor compartment, an alarm compartment, a clock compartment, and a camera compartment. The one or more compartments are reversibly installed in the structure.

[0011] The structure may include one or more glass retaining strips. The one or more glass retaining strips may include at least one of the one or more functional compartments. The one or more functional compartments may be configured to be reversibly installed as part of the glass retaining strips.

[0012] The structure may also include glazing bead strips configured to be mounted within the window frame. The one or more functional compartments may be configured to be mounted onto the window frame.

[0013] According to another embodiment of the present invention, a self-contained smart window system includes an energy harvesting component. The energy harvesting component includes an insulated glass unit (IGU), the IGU including solar-powered glass configured to provide an electrical power source for the window system.

[0014] The self-contained smart window system also includes an energy management component. This energy management component is electrically connected to the solar-powered glass and is configured to optimize the storage and distribution of electrical power generated by the solar-powered glass.

[0015] The self-contained smart window system also includes an energy storage component. The energy storage component includes one or more storage devices electrically connected to the energy management component.

[0016] The self-contained smart window system also includes one or more energy-consuming functional components. These energy-consuming functional components provide at least one of the following: privacy function, security function, dynamic window shading function, or on-demand power supply function.

[0017] The self-contained smart window system also includes a smart window system controller component. The smart window system controller component is electrically connected to the energy harvesting component, the energy management component, the energy storage component, and the one or more energy consumption functional components, and is configured to control energy management and the functional components.

[0018] The self-contained smart window system is installed in a structure configured to secure at least the energy harvesting component, the energy management component, the energy storage component, the smart window system controller component, and one or more energy consuming components within the structure.

[0019] The self-contained smart window system is self-contained, such that the electrical power required to power the components is provided by the solar-powered glass.

[0020] The self-contained smart window system may further include a smart home control component. The smart home control component can communicate with the smart window system controller.

[0021] The structure may include one or more glass strips, a window frame, or both the one or more glass strips and the window frame.

[0022] The solar power glass can convert ultraviolet (UV) light into electrical power. The solar power glass may include one or more of an organic photovoltaic (OPV) device or a light-emitting solar concentrator (LSC) device. One or both of the OPV device or the LSC device are UV OPV devices or UV LSC devices.

[0023] The IGU may further include one or more layers of dynamic glass. The one or more layers of dynamic glass may include an electrochromic (EC) layer. The EC layer may be electrically dimmable. The EC layer may be electrically tinted.

[0024] The energy management components may include one or more energy management panels located in one or more functional compartments reversibly installed in the structure.

[0025] The energy storage component may include one or more batteries located in one or more functional compartments reversibly installed in the structure.

[0026] The privacy features may include providing a motorized smart sunshade integrated into a privacy feature compartment that is reversibly installed in the structure.

[0027] The safety features may include features reversibly installed in one or more functional compartments of the structure, comprising one or more of the following: a security camera, a proximity sensor, a speaker, a motion sensor, or a lock and unlock sensor paired with impact-resistant glass.

[0028] The dynamic window shading feature may include an EC layer in the IGU. The on-demand power supply feature may include a power function compartment insert reversibly installed in the structure.

[0029] According to another embodiment of the present invention, a method for providing privacy, security, and energy efficiency for an interior structure having a window frame includes: providing a self-contained smart window system, and installing the self-contained smart window system in the window frame. The self-contained smart window system includes solar-powered glass. The solar-powered glass is configured to provide power to the window system. The self-contained smart window system also includes one or more functional compartments configured to accommodate one or more features. The self-contained smart window system includes an energy management system electrically connected to the solar-powered glass. The energy management system is configured to optimize the storage and distribution of electrical power provided by the solar-powered glass. The self-contained smart window system also includes at least one energy storage device located in at least one functional compartment. The at least one energy storage device is configured to be electrically connected to the solar-powered glass. The self-contained smart window system also includes one or more circuits configured to distribute the electrical power to the one or more functional compartments and the at least one energy storage device. The self-contained smart window system also includes a structure configured to secure at least the solar-powered glass, the one or more functional compartments, and the at least one energy storage device within the structure. The window system is self-contained, such that the electrical power required to operate the one or more features, to energize the one or more circuits, and to charge the at least one energy storage device is provided by the solar-powered glass. Attached Figure Description

[0030] Those skilled in the art should more fully understand the advantages of the various embodiments of the present invention from the “Detailed Description” discussed below with reference to the accompanying drawings summarized thereafter.

[0031] Figure 1 A schematic diagram of an advanced system design for a self-powered intelligent window system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown.

[0032] Figure 2A A rendering of an embodiment of a self-powered smart window design as viewed from inside the window, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, is shown.

[0033] Figure 2B An enlarged illustration of a low-power charging feature module according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown.

[0034] Figure 2C An embodiment of the charging compartment section according to this disclosure is shown.

[0035] Figure 3A A rendering of an embodiment of a self-powered smart window design including a functional cabin with safety shading and safety features, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, is shown.

[0036] Figure 3B An enlarged rendering of an embodiment of a self-powered smart window design according to this disclosure is shown, highlighting the security features.

[0037] Figure 4A An example is illustrated of a functional cabin with privacy sunshades and security features installed according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0038] Figure 4B A further example is the installation of a functional cabin in a window sunshade according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0039] Figure 5 A drawing showing details of an exemplary integrated adaptive sunshade according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is provided.

[0040] Figure 6A A photograph shows the front view of a security compartment as part of a self-powered smart window design according to an embodiment of this disclosure.

[0041] Figure 6B A photograph shows the rear of a security compartment designed with a self-powered smart window according to an embodiment of this disclosure.

[0042] Figure 7A A rendering of an embodiment of a self-powered window according to this disclosure is shown, including a cross-sectional view of the upper right and lower right corners of the window.

[0043] Figure 7B A drawing of the rear side of a self-powered window according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown, illustrating the device inside the functional compartment when the cover is removed.

[0044] Figure 8A A rendering of an embodiment of a self-powered smart window system, viewed from the inside of a window according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, is shown, wherein the functional compartment is located on the surface of the window frame or window glass.

[0045] Figure 8BA magnified rendering of a window implementation of a self-powered intelligent window system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown, wherein the display is part of the IGU.

[0046] Figure 9A A rendering shows an embodiment of a self-powered smart window system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, illustrating an easy insertion, engagement, and removal of functional compartments on the surface.

[0047] Figure 9B Another rendering shows an embodiment of the functional compartment according to this disclosure that is easy to insert, engage, and remove.

[0048] Figure 9C Additional renderings show an embodiment of a self-powered smart window system according to this disclosure, illustrating an easy insertion, engagement, and removal of functional compartments on the surface.

[0049] Figure 10A A rendering of an embodiment of a self-powered smart window system according to this disclosure is shown, wherein the functional compartment is located on the surface of the window frame and the window is closed.

[0050] Figure 10B A rendering of an embodiment of a self-powered smart window system according to this disclosure is shown, wherein a functional compartment is located on the surface of the window frame and the window is open.

[0051] Figure 11 A solar-powered glass window IGU with electrical connections, and shown to be connected to an IGU, is illustrated according to an embodiment of this disclosure. Detailed Implementation

[0052] An exemplary embodiment presents a self-contained window system comprising a solar-powered glass window, a functional compartment housing components, an energy storage device, and circuitry for distributing electrical power generated by the solar-powered glass to the components and the energy storage device. The self-contained window system is fixed to a structure, which may be a window frame, glazing bead, etc. The solar-powered window may also be referred to as an insulated glass unit (IGU). In embodiments, the IGU may include glass layers with electrochromic layers that can provide dimming and / or color-changing functions for the window system. The solar-powered window may utilize photovoltaic (PV) materials and devices.

[0053] Other electrically controlled tunable light devices on glass, plexiglass, or thin film substrates, which adjust the opacity, transmittance, haze, light scattering, light absorption, and light reflection of the substrate in the wavelength range of 300-3000 nanometers or 8-12 micrometers.

[0054] In the exemplary embodiment, the functional compartment is fixed inside the structure, while in other exemplary embodiments, the functional compartment is fixed outside the structure. Regardless of whether the functional compartment is fixed inside or outside the structure, the components within the functional compartment are accessible and easy to maintain. The functional compartment and components can be easily replaced and upgraded. Details of the exemplary embodiments are discussed below.

[0055] Various implementations offer significant improvements to existing and / or common window and door products by introducing new functions, features, applications, integrations, and unique engineering solutions into window or door designs to achieve motorized window or door products with beneficial capabilities. Furthermore, the features, designs, and methods described herein are unique for windows that incorporate transparent or translucent solar glass as the primary power source and / or energy storage component (e.g., a battery) and / or related window features. For example, the motorized components and sensors integrated into the window, and their ability to function as a self-powered window (requiring no external power source and infrequently requiring external power to charge the batteries driving these applications), represent a significant improvement over existing technologies. The functional cabin concept with reversible mechanical and electrical engagement / connection is a valuable innovation as a unique engineering solution for realizing self-powered smart windows with various features using transparent or translucent solar glass.

[0056] Exemplary implementations improve upon the prior art, particularly by introducing new integrations and unique engineering solutions into windows to achieve feature-rich window products as unique systems for windows.

[0057] The exemplary implementation improves upon designs, methods, and integrations not present in existing window products. Specifically, some or all of these features in existing products and technologies appear to require connection to the building's electrical grid. If they are powered solely by a local battery or other energy storage device, that battery—with a limited charge and lifespan—must be charged using an external power source located away from the window or window system.

[0058] Window frames can be manufactured using conventional methods, depending on the type of material used in their construction. Functional compartments have specific shapes and can be manufactured using a variety of conventional manufacturing processes capable of producing parts—preferably with high resolution. The main printed circuit board (e.g., PCB) and other PCBs used in the windows are manufactured using common or state-of-the-art printed circuit board manufacturing processes. Mechanical and electrical connectors, as well as electrical wiring, must be assembled within the product and throughout its various locations.

[0059] Transparent or translucent solar glass involves assembling electronics into glass that generates power from solar energy or other electromagnetic radiation, converting the solar energy or other radiation into energy to power a window system. In one particular embodiment, the system utilizes laminated glass or a glass coating that converts ultraviolet (UV) light into energy. In another embodiment, the system utilizes laminated glass or a glass coating that absorbs a portion of visible or near-infrared light from solar radiation or indoor or outdoor artificial light and converts the absorbed light into electrical power via photovoltaic and / or light-emitting solar concentrator methods, thus enabling the conversion of UV light into energy. An example of UV solar glass is commercialized by Andluca Technologies, Inc., Princeton, New Jersey.

[0060] In some implementations, UV-transparent or semi-transparent solar glass that collects ultraviolet light and / or a portion of visible or near-infrared light, along with an associated energy storage and management system, is used as the core integration of the window.

[0061] Functional cabin concept

[0062] The cabin concept allows for the addition (or removal) of different features or applications to or upgrading of windows already equipped with existing compatible cabin receptacles. In some embodiments, the cabin concept allows for such upgrades or installations to be completed without tools, through one or more mechanical methods for easily fitting the cabin into the cabin receptacle. The necessary electrical connections are achieved via spring-pin-based quick-connects from the cabin receptacle to pads on the cabin, and may also be achieved via other electrical or mechanical interfaces between the cabin and the cabin receptacle. Other embodiments may involve installation using tools.

[0063] One functional cabin solution includes temperature and humidity sensors that allow sensing of outdoor conditions without compromising the core functional purpose of windows: isolating indoor conditions from outdoor weather such as precipitation. The window design does not compromise electrical components from outdoor weather and natural elements. The same concept can be applied to other sensors, such as air quality sensors, occupancy sensors, and acoustic sensors, not just for measuring temperature and humidity.

[0064] The use of self-powered smart windows is essentially the same as that of ordinary standard windows, because they are designed to isolate the interior space from elements on the outside while allowing occupants inside to see outside—there are no window coverings, decorations, or switchable or dynamic glass. This isolation specifically addresses weather conditions, thermal conditions, and sound conditions. It differs from walls, because windows allow people inside to see outside.

[0065] Self-powered smart windows differ from traditional standard windows because they allow power-demanding features and applications to be integrated into the window itself, eliminating the need for building electrical wiring to the window or connection to any other external power source separate from or far from the window. With such self-powered smart windows, power can be directed to the cabin's reception area, enabling it to power the desired features and applications on the cabin.

[0066] Various implementations of the functional bay concept can be used in conjunction with one or more of proximity sensors, temperature sensors, humidity sensors, cameras, displays, command buttons, on / off buttons, power buttons, and motorized components. In fact, this functional bay concept can be used for a wide variety of other applications requiring power. The power required for window applications preferably does not exceed the limitations of local energy storage components (e.g., batteries) and the ability of UV solar glass to replenish the battery's power over a reasonable period of time.

[0067] Exemplary implementations include solutions for temperature and humidity sensors that allow sensing of outdoor conditions without compromising the core function of windows in isolating the outside from the inside. It also does not impair the protection of mechanical or electrical components from external elements. The same concept can be applied to a variety of other sensors besides temperature and humidity sensors and / or devices.

[0068] Window frames can be manufactured using conventional methods, depending on the material type. Functional compartments will have a specific shape and can be manufactured using conventional manufacturing processes capable of producing parts—especially those capable of producing high-resolution parts. The PCBs involved will be manufactured using the latest PCB manufacturing processes. Connectors and wiring must be assembled throughout the product.

[0069] They can have a wide range of functions as long as the power requirements of individual functional modules and their specific functions are within the range of the included battery capacity and the ability of transparent or semi-transparent solar glass to supplement the power in the battery or other energy storage device.

[0070] Magnets can be used to reversibly attach external components or window housings (e.g., covers) to protect internal compartments. For example, magnets can be used to reversibly attach functional bays and bay housings to a housing, and can also be used to hold components such as electronics and sensors.

[0071] In some implementations, UV solar glass that collects ultraviolet light and / or a portion of visible light has specific and unique advantages and is used by Andluca Technologies as an insulated glass unit (e.g., IGU) because integration into such a window (or door) involves assembling electronics into the glass, which generates power by converting solar energy or other radiation into energy through one or more photovoltaic or luminescent solar concentrator methods, enabling the conversion of UV light into energy for power generation. Solar-collecting UV absorbers can collect ultraviolet (UV) light in the 300-420 nm, 350-420 nm, 350-405 nm, and other regions. In particular, solar-powered glass can convert light with wavelengths between 300-420 nm into electrical power.

[0072] In some embodiments, the window system may incorporate a visible silicon PV strip (using black silicon PV strips) along the perimeter of the glass, and the glass may also function as a light-sensitive photovoltaic (LSC). In some embodiments, the system may incorporate semi-transparent solar power glass using organic photovoltaic coatings, perovskite coatings, or inorganic semiconductor coatings. The system may incorporate perovskite devices, as those solar cell types have demonstrated high performance even as semi-transparent devices. The solar power glass may include one or more of perovskite photovoltaic devices, dye-sensitized devices, or thin-film inorganic photovoltaic devices.

[0073] In some implementations, transparent or semi-transparent UV solar glass IGUs, along with associated energy storage and management systems, are used as the core integration in such windows or doors. This concept can be achieved via glass that collects UV light. This allows features and applications requiring electricity to be powered by the energy storage device, eliminating the need for power from the building itself. The UV solar glass charges the battery as long as UV light from the sun reaches the glass surface. Alternatively, the solar glass can also utilize the absorption of a portion of visible and / or near-infrared light reaching the glass surface from indoor or outdoor environments.

[0074] The entire self-powered system is a solution that eliminates the need for an external wired power supply to power windows or applications and / or features integrated with them, and allows windows or doors to be installed by glazing professionals in a conventional manner, without the need for an electrician. Compared to window or glazing designs with external wiring for power transmission to and from the window or glazing, this design and approach, which allows for installation without an electrician, is highly advantageous for ease of installation, lower costs, and faster installation.

[0075] The cabin concept allows for the addition (or removal) or upgrade of different features and / or applications to windows or doors already equipped with existing compatible cabin reception interfaces and / or slots. This upgrade or installation can be accomplished without any tools, through easy mechanical fitting into the cabin reception. For example, such electrical connections can be achieved via spring-loaded quick-connect or similar connections from the cabin reception to pads or similar cabin interfaces on the cabin.

[0076] The power transfer connection between the functional compartment and the functional compartment receiving section can also be achieved without physical electrical contact via currently common inductive wireless charging methods, such as electromagnetic induction. For example, a system can be used that includes an induction coil that generates an electromagnetic field in the functional compartment receiving section and a receiving coil in the functional compartment that converts the electromagnetic field back into electricity to power the functionality of the functional compartment, thereby transferring charge from the functional compartment to the functional compartment receiving section.

[0077] The functional compartment may include dedicated energy storage components, such as capacitors or batteries, for local energy use within the compartment. In this way, the size of batteries or energy storage components within the glazing bead, frame, or window can be reduced or eliminated entirely, instead utilizing energy storage within the functional compartment. Windows and doors are designed to isolate the interior from elements on the exterior side of the window or door. This isolation specifically addresses certain weather conditions, thermal conditions, and / or acoustic conditions. One implementation allows for sensing of exterior conditions using sensors while maintaining the integrity of the functional compartment concept and upholding the interior-exterior isolation required by conventional window products.

[0078] Windows and doors are designed to protect the interior from external elements. Because the exemplary self-powered smart window has electrical components, most or all of the electrical parts in the panel can be accessed only from the inside and are functionally isolated from areas that might expose the electrical parts to the outside (e.g., where the window is opened and closed). The functional compartment design also allows for the replacement of electrical components without replacing the entire window, as the lifespan of electrical components is typically shorter than that of the window.

[0079] In addition, functional compartments can be designed to isolate PCBs and / or components for specific functions, so that failures of specific PCBs and / or components can be remedied by replacing the specific functional compartment that has failed, without having to replace multiple or all components or functional compartments in the window.

[0080] Another feature of some implementations of self-powered smart windows or doors is the automation capabilities of a programmable PCB and cloud-based programs pushed to the PCB. This includes programs, for example, that allow users to utilize information from sensors on the board or from the Internet and / or the cloud. When sensors and data detect certain conditions and / or stimuli, the sensors and algorithms can be used to drive certain related functions. This enables windows or doors to be optimized for end-user preferences, comfort, security, privacy and / or health, as well as the energy efficiency and / or performance of the home, building, or space. Windows can be easily integrated into various smart home platforms or network connectivity protocols (e.g., Zigbee, WiFi, Bluetooth, cellular, LoRaWAN, etc.), and various window functions can also be driven and activated using methods such as voice commands via smart home platforms.

[0081] This integrated window system is self-powered and requires no external power source, whether permanent or via rechargeable or replaceable batteries. Therefore, it is self-contained and self-powered.

[0082] The functional cabin concept allows for modularity, adaptability, and upgradeability, with the potential for multiple functions to be replaced directly over time, and is user-manageable.

[0083] External-internal interconnection allows for the isolation of the interior, electronic components, and internal environment, while providing physical wiring pathways to sensors and accessories outside the window unit.

[0084] Self-powered smart windows also allow for automation features, using sensor inputs to instruct algorithms to drive certain functions of other attached components. This allows for optimization tailored to end-user preferences.

[0085] In some implementations, the functional cabin concept is applied to windows designed with transparent or translucent UV solar glass, including energy storage and management systems, and functional cabin concept panels. The functional cabin concept panels can be concealed within glass glazing beadings or displayed on the surface of the self-powered window. In some implementations, the functional cabin can be integrated into both the glass glazing beadings and a visible, surface-mounted functional cabin.

[0086] Solar glass collects ultraviolet light to generate power by converting solar energy or other radiation into energy for power generation via one or more photovoltaic or light-emitting solar concentrator methods. In some embodiments, the solar glass may additionally collect a portion of visible light and / or near-infrared light reaching the glass surface from indoor or outdoor environments.

[0087] Window buyers do not need to pre-determine which specific features and / or applications they require before purchasing windows with functional compartment receptacles. They only need to decide whether they want windows with those features in the future. If this choice is made, the decision regarding specific compartment specifications can be made later. This separation of feature and compartment selection, purchase, delivery, and installation allows window and electronics companies to focus on their core competencies, namely windows and electronics, respectively. For example, a window or door can be manufactured with zero, some, or all of the mechanical and electrical components of the window or door system described herein, such as the internal power transmission connection between solar glass and the functional compartment receptacle. A window or door can be manufactured with zero, some, or all of the functional compartments installed in the functional compartment receptacle. Windows or doors can also be manufactured and delivered with dummy functional compartments to protect the functional compartment receptacle, but these are removed and replaced with functional compartments after window or door installation. The described method of using dummy functional compartments for window manufacturing and packaging allows for reduced failure rates during distribution, transportation, and glass installation and / or window installation.

[0088] In some implementations, a self-powered window system may have all the features and / or applications of functions such as: window locking and unlocking, window opening and closing, window information display, battery charging or other energy storage, energy management, temperature sensing, humidity sensing, proximity sensing, camera sensing (e.g., imaging), external temperature sensing, internal temperature sensing, functions implemented via buttons, functions implemented via voice activation commands, and demonstrations of similar features and / or applications.

[0089] Some implementations of self-powered window systems can use UV solar glass as an energy source, store the collected energy in batteries, manage energy usage through an energy management PCB board, power applications in the form of functional feature modules, and achieve automation through built-in sensors and integration with smart home platforms.

[0090] In some implementations, a self-powered window system may include window mounts that allow the self-powered window to open outwards and close again. Window mounts may allow users inside the building to manually open the window. Window mounts may also allow users to electrically open and close the window.

[0091] In some embodiments, the self-powered window system may include a security compartment comprising a motion-sensing camera and an alarm, and a health compartment that can sense a comfortable environment via temperature and humidity sensors. Such security and health compartments can be integrated into the self-powered window system, enabling the electric operation of opening and closing the self-powered windows. That is, in some embodiments, the self-powered window system can sense the presence of occupants in the building and sense the environmental conditions inside and outside the building, opening or closing the windows according to preset conditions.

[0092] In some implementations, the self-powered window system concept may have locking and unlocking features that enable remote operation and integration with a smart home platform.

[0093] In some implementations, the self-powered window system may have a compartment that allows connection of external electronic devices. Connectors in the compartment may include Universal Serial Bus (e.g., USB) connectors, High Definition Multimedia Interface (e.g., HDMI) connectors, XLR connectors, RCA (e.g., RCA) connectors, Registered Jack 45 (RJ45) connectors, Registered Jack 11 (e.g., RJ11) connectors, UTP connectors, BNC (e.g., Bayonet Neill-Concelman) connectors, F-type connectors, N-type connectors, Lucent connectors, Subscriber connectors, DC power connectors for applications such as power supplies, laptops, routers, and CCTV cameras, and connectors for mobile devices including those using 2xMicro USB, Mini USB, 8-Pin Lightning, and USB Type-C connectors for low-power charging.

[0094] In some implementations, various embodiments of the self-powered window system concept with feature / functional compartments add different compartment styles / forms that utilize horizontal removable glass strips of a typical window frame system. This design preferably allows power from the UV solar glass to be available at multiple locations. For example, one location could be in the upper half of the frame, and a second location could be a separate power circuit in the lower half of the frame. This example makes two horizontal feature compartments available: one at the top and one at the bottom. In practice, more locations make more feature compartments available. Those skilled in the art can implement these locations in any of a variety of ways. For example, power availability at any location could be powered by a standard household plug (e.g., a US plug or a European plug). One or more could also be in the form of a USB or USB-C port, or other form factors known or not yet developed in the art.

[0095] This horizontal cabin design allows functionality to span the entire visible area of ​​the window. A key feature of the window is privacy, which can be provided by a privacy cabin for home occupants. The privacy cabin is conceptually similar to the cabins previously described with other features, such as security and / or health features. Like other cabins, the privacy cabin can be easily installed and removed—that is, it can be removably attached to the window and / or window frame. The cabin can be easily replaced and upgraded, and is therefore preferably modular. Depending on the application and the end-user's desired features, these features can be included in the cabin attached to the horizontal cabin opening—whether it is a privacy cabin, a security cabin, or a combination of both. The cabin can be easily connected to a power port from the UV solar glass via USB-C or other power and data ports.

[0096] Glass strips

[0097] In some implementations, the functional compartment is designed to be integrated with the glazing bead of the window frame system. The glazing bead is used to hold the glass in place and is a removable component fastened to the window frame system. Integrating the horizontal functional compartment with the glazing bead frame element allows for the absence of modification to the main frame element. The core functionality of the window frame is preserved without modifying the structural window frame elements, and no risk of failure is introduced into the window frame system. The only modification required is to the glazing bead.

[0098] The modifications to the glazing bead are minimal, involving only some punching and / or mechanical fastening—processes familiar to window manufacturers. Therefore, the design disclosed herein offers manufacturing advantages such as simplified production, minimal disruption to existing processes, minimal additional labor, and lower product failure rates. The modifications to the glazing bead have negligible impact on the manufacturing processes of the glazing bead element and the window manufacturing process as a whole. The glazing bead integrated with the horizontal functional compartment retains the ability to be manufactured via extrusion molding, thus having negligible impact on current manufacturing operations.

[0099] Some privacy pods can be designed with ultra-thin sunshade fabric that provides complete blackout and, in some cases, significant sunlight reflection, allowing the privacy pod to also offer cooling, which can significantly reduce cooling energy requirements. As a blackout fabric, it also allows users to block glare from the sun. This high-end thin fabric also allows for lightweight design, enabling the use of smaller tubular motors (or similar devices) that require less power than larger diameter motors, and the thinner motor profile adds to the attractive slim design aesthetic. Horizontal privacy pods are also designed to allow for easy replacement of different colored fabrics.

[0100] Some or all of the electronic components of the privacy compartment can be housed inside the tubular motor. This includes the battery, battery management system, energy management system, the board that drives the motor, and all the communication hardware and protocols required for integration with most smart home platforms.

[0101] Figure 1 A schematic diagram of an advanced system design for a self-powered smart window system 1 is shown. The self-powered system 1 includes an energy harvesting component 2 for supplying electrical energy to the entire system. The system has an insulated glass unit (e.g., an IGU) that includes solar-powered glass to convert solar radiation incident on the solar glass into electrical energy. In one embodiment, the solar glass converts the ultraviolet (e.g., UV) portion of the solar spectrum into energy while allowing the visible portion of the spectrum to pass through the glass into the structure.

[0102] The self-powered intelligent window system 1 includes an energy management component 4 for managing the storage and distribution of electrical energy to the entire system. The energy management system 4 controls the energy distribution to the glass or windows in the IGU in an application-dependent manner. The energy management system 4 may include power and energy management boards with PCBs, which are either specifically designed for a particular system or adapted from a general design.

[0103] The self-powered intelligent window system 1 includes an energy storage component 6, which comprises one or more storage devices electrically connected to an energy management component. The energy storage devices may include one or more rechargeable batteries. The rechargeable batteries may be any of nickel-cadmium (NiCd) batteries, nickel-metal hydride (NiMH) batteries, lithium-ion (Li-ion) batteries, or lead-acid batteries. The one or more rechargeable batteries may be located in different functional compartments or within the frame of the structure housing the intelligent window system.

[0104] The self-powered intelligent window system 1 includes one or more energy-consuming functional components 8 that provide features, applications, and functions. These features, applications, and functions may be located in a reversibly mounted functional compartment. An example of a function / feature provided by the intelligent window system includes a privacy function. The privacy function may include a motorized intelligent shading integrated into a privacy functional compartment.

[0105] Another example of the functions / features provided by the intelligent window system 1 includes security functions. Security functions include features such as security cameras, proximity sensors, speakers, motion sensors, or lock and unlock sensors paired with impact-resistant glass. Security features can be reversibly installed individually or as a set of features in one or more functional compartments within the intelligent window system. An example set of features may include, but is not limited to, security cameras, proximity sensors, and alarms.

[0106] Another example of the functionality / features provided by the intelligent window system 1 includes dynamic window tinting and / or dimming capabilities. Dimming and / or tinting capabilities can be provided by an electrochromic (EC) layer of dynamic glass combined with solar-powered glass in the IGU. Dynamic tinting enhances energy efficiency and occupant comfort because the dynamic glass responds to sunlight to control glare, heating, and reduce peak energy load. The EC layer can be powered directly by energy harvesting components or indirectly by energy storage components. Other dynamic glass devices may include electroplated glass (EP glass), suspended particle (SPD) devices, and / or polymer-dispersed liquid crystal (PDLC) devices.

[0107] Another example of the functionality / features provided by the smart window system 1 includes on-demand power supply. This on-demand power supply provides backup power for low-power applications, which is continuously replenished by the sun through solar-powered glass.

[0108] The intelligent window system 1 also includes a controller component that connects to and monitors other components of the intelligent window system. In addition to connecting to the energy harvesting component, energy management component, energy storage component, and one or more energy consumption functional components, the controller also controls the energy management and functional components.

[0109] Optional components of the smart window system 1 include a smart home control 10, which can be linked to the controller component. The smart home control is compatible with smart home systems and allows users to remotely control the smart window system via a smart, cloud-based home virtual assistant and Internet of Things (IoT) devices.

[0110] Figure 2A The accompanying drawings illustrate an embodiment of a self-powered smart window design as viewed from inside the window. The smart window design includes solar-powered glass 12 installed within the window. The solar-powered glass 12 is transparent or translucent to visible light and supplies direct current (DC) to the window components. The solar-powered glass 12 absorbs ultraviolet (UV) radiation from sunlight incident on the window while allowing visible light to pass through.

[0111] The glazing bead 14 surrounds and holds the window 12 in place, and provides desired features, accessories, and / or applications. In some embodiments, the glazing bead is designed to be horizontally oriented to position the functional compartment on the inner portions of the top and bottom frame elements. For example, Figure 2A The top glass glazing strip shows a non-limiting set of features 16 that define the safety cabin. A frame 17 surrounds the glass glazing strip 14 and the solar-powered window 12, and provides a fixed attachment to the structure.

[0112] Figure 2BAn enlarged illustration of a low-power charging compartment 18 is shown, in which a charging cable 20 is inserted into a charging (e.g., power) compartment 18 within a glass retaining strip 14 via a USB-C plug. A solar-powered window 12 provides electrical power to the window system.

[0113] Figure 2C An embodiment of the charging compartment section 22 and the glass retaining strip 30 accommodating the charging compartment section 22 is shown. The charging compartment section 22 can accommodate a battery, energy management board, power plug, etc. The power compartment insert 22 is shown to provide features for securing energy storage 24 (e.g., a battery), power and energy management 26 (e.g., a power and energy management board), and power connection features 28 (e.g., a USB-C plug and board). Figure 2C The power function compartment cover 32 is also shown.

[0114] Figure 3A A drawing illustrating an embodiment of a self-powered smart window design is shown, comprising a functional compartment with a privacy shade 36 and security features integrated into a horizontal glazing bead 34. The privacy shade 36 may be a state-of-the-art thin fabric that reflects sunlight, significantly reducing solar heating and energy consumption due to HVAC operation. Figure 3A The window frame 38 and the side glass strip 40 are also shown.

[0115] Figure 3B It shows Figure 3A An enlarged view of an implementation of the self-powered smart window design. As shown, the functional compartment integrates an alarm 42, a camera 44, and a proximity sensor 46 with a roller blind 36 (e.g., a privacy blind), all housed within the glass retaining strip 34.

[0116] Figure 4A An example of installation (e.g., mounting) is shown, comprising a privacy sunshade 36 and a safety feature, a glass glazing strip 34. This functional compartment is integrated into the glass glazing strip 34 and can be easily fitted into the frame 38. The glass glazing strip 34 can be easily removed and reinstalled as user-desired options change or maintenance is required.

[0117] Figure 4B A further illustration shows the installation of a glass strip 34, including a window sunshade compartment, into the frame. A groove 48 for the extension and retraction of the window sunshade is shown at the bottom of the glass strip 34. Figure 4A and Figure 4B This illustrates the ease and reversibility of installing (e.g., mounting) and removing (e.g., detaching) glass strips that contain functional compartments.

[0118] Figure 5A detailed drawing illustrating an embodiment of an integrated adaptive sunshade (e.g., a security sunshade compartment) is shown. A roller assembly 50 is located within a glazing bezel 52. The security sunshade compartment includes an energy management connector 54 and an energy storage device 56 (e.g., a battery). Roller blind material 58 is deployed inside a solar-powered window 60. In some embodiments, the battery 56 can be recharged using energy directly from the solar-powered window 60. In other embodiments, the battery 56 is charged using energy from an energy storage device that is part of the system's power management components. The glazing bezel 52 is mounted within an aluminum frame 62 (e.g., a structure). Detailed drawings of the energy management connector 54 and the energy storage device 56 are shown in frames 64 and 66, respectively.

[0119] Figure 6A A front view of the glass glazing strip 68, which includes a security compartment, is shown as part of a self-powered smart window design, highlighting the security features. As shown, the security compartment integrates an alarm 42, a camera 44, and a proximity sensor 46. The inclusion of these specific security features is not exclusive, as any combination of features can be assembled to provide a customized security product for the user. The security functions of System 1 include features in one or more compartments that include one or more of the following: a security camera, a proximity sensor, a speaker, a motion sensor, or a lock and unlock sensor paired with impact-resistant glass. An internal power cable 70 providing energy management and control, and a solar-powered window 60 are shown.

[0120] Figure 6B A drawing of the back of the glass strip 68 with a security compartment is shown, and it is shown with the cover 72 removed, revealing the back of the security electronics, alarm 42, camera 44, and proximity sensor 46. A solar-powered window 60 is also shown.

[0121] Figure 7A A drawing illustrating an embodiment of a self-powered window 74 is shown, including a cross-sectional view of the upper right corner 76 and lower right corner 78 of the window 74. The external structure of the self-powered window 74 includes a window frame 62 to which a glazing bead 52 is mounted. A functional compartment 76 is located within the glazing bead 52. A solar-powered window 60 is also shown.

[0122] Figure 7B A drawing of the rear side of a self-powered window according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown, illustrating the apparatus inside the functional compartment with the cover removed. A battery 56, an electronics panel 78, and an electrochromic device control panel 80 are shown in the functional compartment, and a solar-powered window 60 is also shown.

[0123] Figure 8AA drawing illustrating an embodiment of a self-powered smart window 81 is shown, wherein, viewed from the inside of the window, the functional compartments are located on the outer surface of the window frame 82. The functional compartments shown on the frame 82 include a safety compartment 84, a health compartment 86, a manual lock 88, a main compartment 90, and a manual over-control device 92. A glass retaining strip 94 is located on the inside of the frame 82. A solar-powered window 60 is also shown.

[0124] Figure 8B A magnified rendering of a window implementation of a self-powered smart window 81 is shown, with a display 96 as part of the IGU. A glazing bead 94 is shown adjacent to the solar-powered window 60.

[0125] Figure 9A A drawing illustrates an embodiment of a self-powered intelligent window system according to this disclosure, showing a functional compartment on the surface that is easy to insert, engage, and remove. Figure 9A Functional compartment 98 is shown, which can be electrically connected via a spring-pin-based quick-connect 100 from the functional compartment receiving part to the pads on the functional compartment.

[0126] Figure 9B Another rendering of an embodiment of the functional compartment 102 according to this disclosure, which is easy to insert, engage, and remove, is shown.

[0127] Figure 9C Additional renderings show an embodiment of a self-powered smart window system according to this disclosure, illustrating an easy-to-insert, engage, and remove configuration of a functional bay 104 on the surface of the system.

[0128] Figure 10A A rendering of an embodiment of a self-powered smart window system according to the present disclosure is shown, wherein a functional compartment 106 is located on the surface of a window frame 82 and has a closed solar-powered window 60 and a display 96.

[0129] Figure 10B A rendering of an embodiment of a self-powered smart window system according to the present disclosure is shown, wherein a functional compartment 106 is located on the surface of a window frame 82 and has an openable solar-powered window 60 and a display 96.

[0130] Figure 11A solar-powered glass window IGU 108 with electrical connections is shown, illustrating the connection to the IGU. The surface of the solar-powered window 60 is shown. The IGU has two sets of solar cells and two sets of connections. The first set of solar cells is connected along the left side and top of the IGU, having a first edge treatment 110. They have a first electrical connector 112. The second set of solar cells is connected along the right side and bottom of the IGU, having a second edge treatment 114. They have a second electrical connector 116. An enlarged illustration shows a detailed illustration of the connector 118 for the second set of solar cells. Connector 118 will be inserted into a functional compartment or circuit to provide electrical power to the smart window system 1.

[0131] The embodiments of the present invention described above are intended to be exemplary only; many variations and modifications will be apparent to those skilled in the art. These variations and modifications are intended to fall within the scope of the invention as defined by any of the appended claims.

Claims

1. A self-powered window system, the window system comprising: Solar-powered glass, configured to provide an electrical power source for the window system; One or more functional compartments, said one or more functional compartments being configured to accommodate one or more features; An energy management system electrically connected to the solar power glass, the energy management system being configured to optimize the storage and distribution of electrical power provided by the solar power glass; At least one energy storage device, located in at least one functional compartment, is configured to be electrically connected to the solar power glass; One or more circuits configured to distribute the electrical power to the one or more functional compartments and the at least one energy storage device; as well as The structure is configured to secure at least the solar power glass, the one or more functional compartments, and the at least one energy storage device within the structure. The window system is self-contained, such that the electrical power required to operate the one or more features, to energize the one or more circuits, and to charge the at least one energy storage device is provided by the solar-powered glass.

2. The window system according to claim 1, wherein, The one or more features include at least one of the following: power supply compartment, security compartment, privacy compartment, gas sensor compartment, alarm compartment, clock compartment, and camera compartment.

3. The window system according to claim 1, wherein, The one or more functional modules are reversibly installed in the structure.

4. The window system according to claim 1, wherein, The structure includes one or more glass retaining strips.

5. The window system according to claim 4, wherein, The one or more glass retaining strips include at least one of the one or more functional compartments.

6. The window system according to claim 5, wherein, The one or more functional compartments are configured to be reversibly installed as part of the glass retaining strip.

7. The window system according to claim 1, wherein, The structure includes a glass strip configured to be installed within the window frame.

8. The window system according to claim 1, wherein, The one or more functional compartments are configured to be mounted on the window frame.

9. A self-contained intelligent window system, the window system comprising: An energy harvesting component, the energy harvesting component including an insulated glass unit (IGU), the IGU including solar power glass configured to provide an electrical power source for the window system; An energy management component, which is electrically connected to the solar power glass and configured to optimize the storage and distribution of electrical power generated by the solar power glass; An energy storage component, the energy storage component including one or more storage devices electrically connected to the energy management component; One or more energy-consuming functional components, said one or more energy-consuming functional components providing at least one of privacy function, security function, dynamic window shading function or on-demand power function; A smart window system controller component, which is electrically connected to the energy harvesting component, the energy management component, the energy storage component, and one or more energy consumption functional components, and is configured to control energy management and the functional components; as well as The structure is configured to secure at least the energy harvesting component, the energy management component, the energy storage component, the smart window system controller component, and one or more energy consumption functional components within the structure. The window system is self-contained, such that the electrical power required to power the components is provided by the solar-powered glass.

10. The window system of claim 9, further comprising: A smart home control component, which communicates with the smart window system controller.

11. The window system according to claim 9, wherein, The structure includes: One or more glass strips; Window frames; or Both the one or more glass strips and the window frame.

12. The window system according to claim 9, wherein, The solar power glass converts ultraviolet (UV) light into electrical power.

13. The window system according to claim 12, wherein, The solar power glass includes one or more of an organic photovoltaic (OPV) device or a light-emitting solar concentrator (LSC) device.

14. The window system according to claim 13, wherein, One or both of the OPV device or the LSC device are UV OPV devices or UV LSC devices.

15. The window system according to claim 9, wherein, The IGU also includes one or more layers of dynamic glass.

16. The window system according to claim 15, wherein, The one or more layers of dynamic glass include an electrochromic (EC) layer.

17. The window system of claim 16, wherein, The EC layer is electrically tunable.

18. The window system according to claim 16, wherein, The EC layer is electrically colorable.

19. The window system according to claim 11, wherein, The energy management component includes one or more energy management panels, which are reversibly installed in one or more functional compartments of the structure.

20. The window system of claim 11, wherein, The energy storage component includes one or more batteries, which are reversibly installed in one or more functional compartments of the structure.

21. The window system according to claim 11, wherein, The privacy features include providing a motorized smart sunshade integrated into a privacy compartment that can be reversibly installed in the structure.

22. The window system according to claim 9, wherein, The safety features include features reversibly installed in one or more functional compartments of the structure, comprising one or more of the following: a security camera, a proximity sensor, a speaker, a motion sensor, or a lock and unlock sensor paired with impact-resistant glass.

23. The window system according to claim 9, wherein, The dynamic window shading feature includes the EC layer in the IGU.

24. The window system of claim 11, wherein, The on-demand power supply function includes a power function compartment insert that is reversibly installed in the structure.

25. A method for providing privacy, security, and energy efficiency for an interior structure with a window frame, the method comprising: Provides a self-contained intelligent window system; as well as The self-contained smart window system is installed in the window frame, and the self-contained smart window system includes: Solar-powered glass, configured to provide an electrical power source for the window system; One or more functional compartments, said one or more functional compartments being configured to accommodate one or more features; An energy management system electrically connected to the solar power glass, the energy management system being configured to optimize the storage and distribution of electrical power provided by the solar power glass; At least one energy storage device, located in at least one functional compartment, is configured to be electrically connected to the solar power glass; One or more circuits configured to distribute the electrical power to the one or more functional compartments and the at least one energy storage device; and The structure is configured to secure at least the solar power glass, the one or more functional compartments, and the at least one energy storage device within the structure. The window system is self-contained, such that the electrical power required to operate the one or more features, to energize the one or more circuits, and to charge the at least one energy storage device is provided by the solar-powered glass.

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